25 Aug 2025
The rise of live casino gambling in the UK has transformed the way players enjoy classics like poker, blackjack, and roulette, blending the buzz of a real casino floor with the convenience of online play.
But behind the enjoyment lies a strict legal framework designed to keep games fair, operators accountable, and players protected.
From licensing requirements set by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to responsible gaming policies and technical standards for live dealer studios, these rules ensure that licensed live casinos are regulated to support transparency and safer play environments.
In this online casino guide, we’ll be diving into the following points related to this topic:
- Licensing Requirements for UK Live Casinos
- Key Legal Protections for Players
- Legal Differences Across Game Types
Licensing Requirements for UK Live Casinos
UKGC Operating Licence
- All live casino operators must hold a valid licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to provide services within Great Britain. This is a fundamental legal requirement.
- Licences are obtained through a rigorous process that includes vetting on financial stability, anti-money laundering (AML), customer protection, and fair play.
- Obtaining a licence may take around 16 weeks, and includes initial fees and an annual maintenance requirement.
Technical Standards: RTS 17 (Live Dealer Studios)
- Live dealer operations must adhere to RTS 17, covering fair play, auditability, and operational integrity.
- Requirements include maintaining high-quality equipment, training dealers, implementing secure access controls, and using surveillance systems in studios.
Key Legal Protections for Players
Regulatory Oversight and Fair Play
- The UKGC’s framework protects against unfair practices and ensures that operators can lose their licence or face penalties for non-compliance.
- UKGC regulates even offshore operators if they wish to market to UK players.
Responsible Gambling Requirements
- Operators must support tools like self-exclusion, deposit limits, and provide information about gambling addiction support services.
- Operators must also follow the LCCP (Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice), which include responsible marketing and customer protection standards.
Legal Differences Across Game Types
- Whether it’s live poker, live blackjack, or live roulette, all fall under the UKGC’s licensing rules as they are classified as remote gambling using British-based equipment.
- For live table games in physical locations, like local casinos, operators must additionally hold a premises licence, with approval from local licensing authorities.
- Before applying for a premises licence, operators must have already applied for an operating licence.
What Players May Ask
|
Player Question |
Legal Insight |
|
“Where can I find live poker games hosted by skilled dealers?” |
Players should look for UKGC-licensed platforms (e.g., Genting Casino) that meet dealer training and fair-play standards. These operators must comply with dealer training and fair-play standards. |
|
“Suitable live roulette with an enjoyable and safe environment?” |
Choose platforms regulated by the UKGC, with high-quality live broadcasting, clear audio practices, and transparent responsible gambling tools. |
Legal Compliance is Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re a player seeking engaging live roulette or operators planning your launch, legal compliance in UK live casino gambling is non-negotiable.
From securing a UKGC licence and following RTS technical requirements, to creating a culture of player protection and responsible play, these rules ensure fair, safe, and immersive gambling experiences.
For players looking to enjoy live poker or blackjack in the UK, we recommend selecting fully UKGC-licensed platforms like Genting Casino, with clear responsible gambling support.
The house will always have an edge. Never try to chase losses by gambling more. Casino games are games of chance. Outcomes are random, and no wins are guaranteed. Always play responsibly and within your means.
Sources:
- “UK Gambling Commission” - https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk
- “UK iGaming License Application Support” - https://www.csbgroup.com/igaming-services-uk/online-gaming-licence-application/
- “Guidance to licensing authorities” - https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/manual/guidance-to-licensing-authorities/rts-17-live-dealer-studios
- “Overview of Gambling Legislation Internationally” - https://www.livecasinocomparer.com/inside-live-casino/overview-of-gambling-legislation/
- “Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice” - https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses/lccp
- “Premises licence” - https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence
- “Operating licences” - https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences
